Dua Zehra, a teenager went missing ten days ago from her residency in Shah Faisal Colony, Karachi. Her parents claimed she was abducted and reached out to Zafar Abbas – chief of the JDC organization, to request authorities find his missing daughter.
The video went viral and different rumours surfaced on the internet during the investigation. Some said it’s a sectarian issue while others hope and pray for the safe return of the teenager. Internet users were also divided into Shia-Sunni debates and the misinformation led to useless arguments and create hatred for followers of both sectors.
And today after 10 days, police have recovered Dua and her husband from Lahore. In a video, she recorded her message and said that she left her home with her will. Her parents used to torture her and were getting her married to a man double her age. Meanwhile, her father denied her escape claiming she’s barely 14 to take any decision and also termed the Nikahnama as a fake document to harass the family.
But after the subsequent video, there’s no denying that her escape is a reality from her toxic family and the abuse Dua Zehra suffered at home.
In a similar case, Nimra Khan also went missing and was later found married to Najeeb Shahrukh.
Lesson for Parents?
From both cases, it’s clearly evident that parents were trying hard to control their daughters. They confined them to homes and don’t nurture them in a friendly environment.
Here parents must understand Gen Z who is also known as Zoomers. Since they are brought up in the age of technology, social media, and the Internet, it’s unfair to control their narrative. They are completely aware of what’s going on in the world. The information is also at their fingertips and they know how to make things work for them.
The positive parenting style is not to deprive them of their legal rights at least which include, education, marriages of their own will, and freedom of speech. If being a parent you will try to control their lives, there are high chances for them to rebel and stand for their rights.
Secondly, be it Gen-Z, X or Y, not letting children pursue marriages of their choice is against the religion as well.
The disconnection between the parents and children can let young ones find their own path. So, it’s better to give your time and attention to your children and also your support.
Also, parenting doesn’t remain the same in every era. Those who adopt and learn with time can raise a good generation as compared to those who stick to the traditional style. Evolve and stay updated with your children to grow a strong bond, that’s the message.
Another important lesson is to verify news before giving opinions or indulging in debates. Social media is indeed a powerful tool but if it’s used in the wrong way it can isolate you from the truth. So, be wise to research first and then form an opinion.
I prefer books and diaries more than phones and Facebook. Soulfully connected to Pakistan. And I passionately believe that I can change the world through blogging.
